CIRA - Italian Aerospace Research Centre

CIRA, the Italian Aerospace Research Centre, is a company mainly of public ownership created in 1984 for the purpose of performing research in the fields of space and aeronautics.

The Centre, with headquarters and operational structures in Capua, Campania, was founded by the Italian State with the aim of promoting research and technological development in the fields of space and aeronautics matching that of other European countries, and enabling Italian enterprises to compete at high levels on the international markets.

The Italian Space Agency (reference shareholder), the National Research Council, the Region of Campania, and industries and SMEs of the aerospace sector who play a part in the company, all ensure that CIRA’s goals remain consistent with the strategic national guidelines and the needs of companies, thereby contributing to the economic development of the country.

Today, thirty years since it was set up, CIRA has the biggest research facilities in the field of aerospace in Italy, with testing facilities that are unique in the world and state-of-the-art laboratories used by industries and bodies in Italy and around the world.

The company specialises in the most advanced techniques of aerospace research: from the study of aeronautical craft and spacecraft able to fly autonomously and at very high speeds; to the development of innovative systems that can reduce the environmental impact of aircraft, increase flight safety, and improve the management of air traffic; and to the development of technologies for the space transport systems of tomorrow.

CIRA takes part in the main European and International research programmes, collaborates with top Universities and aeronautical and space companies in Italy and other countries, and is also a strong attractor of talent and industrial investments.

370 people currently work for CIRA, mostly in research and in scientific and technological development.